2024 IMPACT REPORT
& Colton Johnson Founders
Laura Edwards Executive Director
Heather
Boone
A Message From Our Founders & Executive Director
Dear Friends, Supporters, and Community,
Every partnership between a person and a service dog begins with a simple truth: together, we are stronger than we are alone.
In 2020, when Sunrise Service Dogs was just a vision, we dreamed of creating a world where exceptional canines could bridge the gap between disability and possibility. Today, as we reflect on the past year, we are humbled and inspired by the life-changing partnerships we’ve helped create. What began as a dream has blossomed into a movement that has transformed lives, one team at a time.
This past year has been one of remarkable growth and profound impact. We graduated six new service dog teams, each one a testament to the power of partnership. These teams are now supporting individuals living with PTSD, autism, diabetes, mobility challenges, and rare conditions like Lamb-Schaffer Syndrome and Charcot-Marie Tooth Disease 4J. Each graduation represents months of training and a new beginning—a brighter path. Our Puppy Academy welcomed new additions, carefully bred and selected to ensure the highest standards of training and care. We also expanded our Bridge Academy, supporting 26 individuals, including Veterans, First Responders, and Civilians, each with their own unique challenges and triumphs.
What sets Sunrise Service Dogs apart is our unwavering commitment to seeing the whole person. We understand that disability is just one facet of a complex, valuable human life. Our dogs don’t just perform tasks; they become bridges— connecting people back to their communities, their families, and parts of themselves they thought were lost. We remember
the veteran who, after years of sleepless nights, finally found peace with his service dog by his side.
We recall the mother who wept tears of joy when her child with autism spoke to their service dog—the first words she’d heard in months. And we celebrate the young woman with mobility challenges who, with her service dog’s support, ventured confidently into the world for the first time in years. These moments aren’t just successes; they’re reminders of why we built this organization in the first place.
As we move forward, we remain committed to excellence in breeding and training, while honoring the unique qualities of each individual we serve. Our dogs come from exceptional bloodlines—Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds, Old English Sheepdogs —because we believe that creating life-changing partnerships begins with outstanding canines.
The pages that follow tell our story in numbers and images, but the true measure of our impact lives in the everyday moments that don’t make it into reports: A veteran who can sleep through the night. A person with mobility challenges who ventures confidently into the world with their service dog by their side.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Whether you’ve donated, volunteered, sponsored, or simply shared our story, you’ve helped create a bridge of possibility for someone who needed it. Together, we’re building a world where disability doesn’t define limitations—where exceptional dogs and remarkable humans find their way to each other, creating partnerships that transform lives.
With gratitude and hope,
Heather & Colton Johnson Founders
Laura Edwards Executive Director
About Us
RudyPrograms & Services
Puppy Academy
Our comprehensive breeding and early training program develops purpose-bred puppies from exceptional bloodlines, preparing them for specialized service dog work through sciencebased training methods and early socialization.
Sunrise Service Dogs was founded in 2020 with a clear mission—to create a bridge of possibility by partnering individuals with exceptional canines. What started as an idea became a reality in 2022 when entire operations began, establishing a unique approach to training and placing service dogs.
In a short time, we have grown into a trusted organization, developing specialized programs that address various needs. The impact has been significant, with service dog partnerships transforming lives and strengthening communities. Our rapid progress reflects both the increasing demand for these services and the effectiveness of our approach.
Bridge Academy
Our owner-trained program supports individuals who already have dogs with service potential, providing expert guidance, training protocols, and certification assistance to transform beloved pets into qualified service animals.
2024 Impact Overview
6
2024 Impact Overview
26
7 puppies were welcomed into our program from generous breeders across the US. active clients served across our programs
7 puppies were bred and whelped in-house by SSD.
1 Dam’s Owner
5 Entered Our Program
1 Stud’s Owner
Our Graduates Report:
90% report increased ability to navigate public spaces independently
85% experience improved confidence in daily activities
88% report reduced reliance on human assistance for routine tasks
92% report decreased anxiety in public settings
94% experience reduced frequency or severity of PTSD symptoms
95% report increased social engagement and reduced isolation
100% note improved sleep quality and duration
Client Stories
Behind every service dog partnership lies a story of transformation that statistics alone cannot describe.
In the following accounts, our clients share how their service dogs have become bridges to independence, confidence, and renewed possibility. These firsthand testimonials reveal not just what our dogs do, but how these exceptional partnerships have fundamentally changed lives, creating impacts that go far beyond the tasks performed and into the everyday moments that define quality of life.
Debbie & Hoss
"Having my dog by my side has renewed my social life. I can now attend family gatherings, meet friends for coffee, and run errands without the anxiety that used to hold me back. I’m a veteran with PTSD and his calm presence helps me stay grounded, and his assistance with physical tasks means I can focus on enjoying the moment rather than worrying about getting through it."
Justin & Perry
"Since partnering with Perry, I've seen incredible growth — both in his skills and my independence. He's mastered everything from helping with personal care tasks to making shopping trips manageable. What's truly remarkable is how he's helped me maintain my social connections even during health flares. Thanks to him, I’m able to work, and I haven't had to miss important family events or friend gatherings."
AmiLynne & Beau
"With Beau by my side, I've rediscovered the world beyond my home. From attending my husband’s reunion to visiting grocery stores, movie theaters, and even experiencing Hamilton live, Beau has made these outings not just possible but enjoyable. His calm, steady presence in crowded spaces and his ability to navigate everything for me has eliminated barriers I once thought insurmountable. The confidence I feel with him beside me has allowed me to reconnect with friends, engage in social activities, and experience life's simple pleasures again— all while knowing I have his unwavering support should I need it."
Lauryn & Navia
Before Navia, my service dog, living with POTS meant each outing was a gamble. She alerts me before cardiac episodes and stays with me during events, giving me precious time to take preventive measures. Thanks to her constant monitoring, I've regained my independence. Having Navia by my side means I can focus on living my life instead of worrying about my next cardiac event. She's my guardian angel who's given me my life back.
Michel & Santiago
"My dog has transformed my daily life in ways I never expected. From helping me with practical tasks like retrieving dropped items and opening doors, to giving me the confidence to explore new places, and going to the VA, he's become an essential part of my independence."
2024 Graduates
The Heart of Sunrise Service Dogs
Volunteers
Volunteers are the backbone of Sunrise Service Dogs. Their incrediblecommitment has been instrumental in helping us fulfill our mission ofcreating meaningful partnerships between individuals and exceptional dogs.
4800+ Volunteer Hours 12 Active Volunteers 65% in Operational Support
Join Our Volunteer Family
The growing demand for our programs and services means we are always looking for passionate individuals to join our volunteer team. Whether you can offer a few hours a month or a more significant commitment, you have a place at Sunrise Service Dogs. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, visit https://sunriseservicedogs.org/volunteer
"Raising a litter of future service dog puppies has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Watching these puppies grow from their first breaths to becoming confident, well-socialized puppies ready for their training journey has filled my heart with purpose. Each midnight feeding, every cleanup, all the careful socialization –it's all worth it knowing these puppies will go on to change someone's life. Being part of this program's mission from the very beginning stages is an honor I'll always cherish."
Susie L.
- Whelping Home Volunteer
"Raising Star has brought so much joy and purpose to our family. Teaching her basic obedience, watching her master new skills, and exposing her to different environments has been incredibly rewarding. Star has taught us compassion and responsibility, and we've all grown attached to this special puppy. While saying goodbye will be difficult, knowing Star will go on to provide independence and companionship to someone with a disability who needs her makes it all worthwhile. We're honored to be part of this amazing journey."
Christophe & Rebecca G.
- Puppy Raisers
"After more than 35 years in dog breeding and conformation, donating puppies to this program has given my work new meaning. I carefully select puppies with the perfect temperament and health clearances to become service dogs. Seeing my dogs go on to transform lives is more meaningful than any show ring ribbon. The program's dedication to excellence in breeding and training aligns perfectly with my values, and I'm proud to contribute my lines and expertise to help create these extraordinary service dog teams."
Shannon G.
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Puppy Donor, Lowood Labrador Retrievers
Colton Johnson Co-Founder, Chair
Heather Johnson Co-Founder, Board Member
Brian Frevert Vice Chair, Board Member
Russell A. White CPA, MBA, Treasurer
Tricia Elmer Board Member
Diana Wilson Secretary Douglas Johnson Board Member
Laura Edwards Executive Director
Thank You For Your Support in 2024!
$20,000-$50,000
The Andras Foundation
Under the Sun Dog Training & Daycare
$5,000-$15,000
Karen Benenati, Equity Colorado Real Estate
The Furnace Guy Heating & Cooling
Harewood Kennels
Doug & Michaelanne Johnson
Kennel Club of Philadelphia
Patty Korsch
Lowood Labrador Retrievers
REACOS
$2,500-$4,999
Jeri Betg
Brooks Labrador Retrievers
Brian & Kay Frevert
Amy Harnden
David & Amy McKinley
Lisa & Patrick Nofield
Phil Long Ford Motor City
$1,000-$2,499
Chuck Bessant
The Canine Chronicle
Tyler Crady-Roche, All Breed Photo
Deerview Boxers & Pet Nanny
Laura & Robert Edwards
Clark & Tricia Elmer
Melissa Emmett
Fox21 KXRM
David Frei
The Forest Event Rentals
Sharon Hanson
Carl & Donna Hatton
Tom & Leah Huxtable
Juniper Hill Golden Retrievers Clint & Karen Livingston
Long's Peak German Shepherds
Magnum Shooting Center
James & Sheyna Marshall
Jenna McMullen
Karen Merritt
Pebwin Golden Retrievers
Purina
Laurie & Wayne Smith
Shelia & Lex Smith
Diane & Kent Sutherland
Debbie Urioste
Katy & Jim van Housen
Zach & Zoe Watkins
Waypoint Bank
$500-$999
Bell Brothers Brewing
Monica Bullock & Crys Lucero
Elissa Boyet
Dayna Breault
95.1 Cat Country
Definitive Dog
Denver's Competitive Ink
Bell Brothers Brewing El Paso County 4-H Dog Advisory Committee
Carl & Donna Hatton
Mandie Hoehne
J&J Dog Supplies
Eric & Joan Liebes
North Springs Veterinary Referral Center
Pet Pantry
Joshua Reynolds
Jon & Juli Romero
Brittany & Cris Shumack
Mark & Sharon Sperry
Sanford Woodard
Willow Creek Portraits